L.A. Deli Lands in Top 5 of National Yelp Sandwich Rankings – California Dominates List
Huntington Park, CA – February 29, 2024 – Los Angeles sandwich lovers have reason too celebrate: WoodsDeli, a Huntington Park establishment, has been ranked #5 in the nation by Yelp’s newly released “Top 100 Sandwich Shops” list. The ranking, based entirely on customer reviews, highlights the best sandwich destinations across the United States, adn California led the pack with a remarkable 14 entries.
This news underscores a growing national appreciation for the diverse and high-quality sandwich scene blossoming in california, and specifically within los angeles County. While the sandwich may seem a simple fare, it represents a cornerstone of american cuisine, evolving with regional flavors and culinary innovation. Yelp’s ranking provides a valuable snapshot of where those innovations are thriving.
WoodsDeli, owned by Robert Valdez, opened its doors just three years ago, filling a notable gap in the local food landscape.Valdez identified a four-mile radius around his location lacking a deli offering “clean and full of flavor” options,according to a Yelp interview. The deli quickly became a local favorite,known for its creative and generously portioned sandwiches.
Signature offerings include the Saucy turkey Pretzel – featuring turkey, avocado, and a house-made chipotle sauce served on a locally baked soft pretzel bun – and the Italian Stallion, a meat-lover’s dream packed with four different meats, spicy pickled onions, and a vibrant red bell pepper sauce. Valdez’s inspiration stems from a childhood fondness for Dagwood Bumstead, the famously sandwich-eager character from the Blondie comic strip, a connection reflected in the deli’s name.
But WoodsDeli is more than just remarkable sandwiches.Valdez has woven community involvement into the core of his business model. He regularly hosts food and clothing giveaways,partners with youth programs to provide job opportunities for teenagers,and offers free sandwiches during events like National Night Out. He is currently developing a scholarship program for local high school athletes and plans to launch a line of branded merchandise.
California’s strong showing on the Yelp list extends beyond WoodsDeli. Sierra Subs and Salads in Three Rivers (Tulare County), secured the #2 spot nationally, lauded for its diverse menu including muffalettas, manwiches, and a unique “wasabi stinger” chicken sandwich. Super Subs in Banning (Riverside County) rounded out the top ten at #10, offering a wide range of options from meatball subs to Chicago-style hot dogs and spicy Asian chicken sandwiches.
Texas followed California with 11 entries, demonstrating a strong regional sandwich culture. Franky’s Deli Warehouse in Hialeah, Florida, took the top overall spot.
Here’s the complete Top 10, according to yelp:
- franky’s Deli Warehouse, Hialeah, Florida
- Sierra Subs and Salads, Three Rivers, California
- Tony’s Beechhurst Deli, Whitestone, New York
- Tony’s Italian Delicatessen, Montgomery, Texas
- WoodsDeli, Huntington Park, California
- Chicago Paulies, Tampa, Florida
- Hugs Cafe, McKinney, Texas
- Blues City Deli, St. Louis, Missouri
- Gino’s Deli Stop N Buy, san Antonio, Texas
- Super Subs, Banning, California
Links for further exploration:
Yelp’s Top 100 Sandwich Shops: https://www.yelp.com/article/top-100-sandwich-shops-2025
WoodsDeli Website: https://www.woods-deli.com/
* Timeout los Angeles – Best Sandwiches: https://www.timeout.com/los-angeles/restaurants/best-sandwich-shops-and-sandwiches-in-los-angeles
